Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2016

Abstract

This study explores the persistence of ethnic identity among second- and fourth- generation Italian American emerging adults. In particular, the relational 10 and college influences affecting its development were examined. The findings indicate that a distinct Italian American ethnic identity persists in this population, although it evolves with distance from the immigrant generation. We found that Italian American identity is relationally dynamic and shaped by many factors, most notably, family ethnic socialization, peer relationships, college experiences, 15 ethnic pride, exposure to Italian culture, and life transitions. These findings extend our understanding of the cyclical nature of ethnic identity development within a specific ethnic group and the unique cultural forces shaping the identity of Italian Americans.

Publication Title

Identity: an International Journal of Theory and Research

ISSN

1528-3488

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Volume

16

Issue

4

First Page

1

Last Page

17

DOI

10.1080/15283488.2016.1229610

Comments

On repository at Digital Commons @ West Chester University is the final post-refereed manuscript of this article. A link to the published version can be found at http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15283488.2016.1229610

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